Norway has announced plans to introduce legislation this year banning children under 16 from using social media platforms, with technology companies expected to enforce the age restriction through mandatory verification systems.
Gatekeepers News reports that Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the move is aimed at protecting children from excessive digital exposure and preserving childhood experiences away from screens and algorithm-driven platforms.
“We are introducing this legislation because we want a childhood where children get to be children. Play, friendships, and everyday life must not be taken over by algorithms and screens,” Støre said.
Describing the proposal as “an important measure to safeguard children’s digital lives,” the Norwegian leader said the legislation forms part of broader efforts to shield minors online.
The move places Norway among a growing number of countries tightening regulations around children’s access to social media. France, Spain and Denmark have indicated plans to introduce a digital age of majority for social networks, while Australia and Türkiye have already taken similar steps.
At the regional level, the European Commission has also intensified efforts to protect children online, unveiling an age-verification app in mid-April that is expected to be rolled out across Europe.
Norwegian Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance Karianne Tung said the burden of enforcing the proposed age limit would rest squarely on tech companies.
“I expect technology companies to ensure that the age limit is respected. Children cannot be left with the responsibility for staying away from platforms they are not allowed to use,” Tung said.
“That responsibility rests with the companies providing these services. They must implement effective age verification and comply with the law from day one,” she added.
The Norwegian government said children’s use of smartphones and social media has already declined following measures previously introduced, including national screen-time guidelines and recommendations for mobile-free schools.
